CHAPTER II.

CONCERNING SEÑORA CERVERA.


Joseph Maynard arrived at Nick Carter's residence just as the famous New
York detective was about preparing for lunch, and quickly stated his
mission, disclosing the superficial features of the crime.

Nick Carter habitually looked below the surface of things, however, and
in trifles he invariably discovered more than the ordinary man. Before
Maynard had fairly outlined the case Nick keenly discerned that the
robbery could not have been committed by any common criminals, and he at
once decided not only that he would take the case, but also that it gave
promise of something far more startling than then appeared aboveboard.

Yet even Nick's keen discernment utterly failed, at this early stage of
the affair, to anticipate its actual magnitude and tragic possibilities.

Having consented to accompany Maynard to the scene of the crime, Nick
turned to Chick Carter, his reliable chief assistant, who also had been
an attentive listener to Maynard's disclosures.

"You had better come with me, Chick," said he. "This affair has rather a
bad look, and in case quick work is imperative, I may need your
assistance."

"Go with you it is, Nick," Chick heartily cried, hastening to put on his
coat and hat.